21st Samui Regatta 2024 Kicks Off Forecasting 100 Million Baht Boost to Local Island Economy

The 21st Samui Regatta 2024 is set to begin with a grand opening ceremony, taking place from May 25th to June 1st, 2024, along the breathtaking Chaweng Beach coast. The center and host venue for this year event is the Nora Beach Resort and Spa. This prestigious event will attract over 200 sailors and participants from across the world, further establishing Koh Samui as a premier sailing destination and one of the world's top 10 islands. The regatta is expected to generate significant revenue for the island, projected at100 million baht. This influx will not only boost tourism revenue but also enhance the overall quality and quantity of tourists, thereby promoting sustainable tourism on Koh Samui.

Sermsak Pongpanit, Minister of Tourism and Sports, remarked, "Being a part of the 21st Samui Regatta is a true honor. This event exemplifies Thailand's outstanding capability in organizing world-class sailing competitions, attracting participants from numerous countries. It fosters a sense of pride and strengthens Samui and Thailand's standing as leading watersports destinations in the region. Our goal is to establish Koh Samui as one of the top 10 islands in the world, and the Samui Regatta plays a crucial role in achieving this objective. The Regatta not only showcases the beauty of Thailand's tourist attractions but also contributes to the local economy's growth by attracting tourists and businesses, creating a vibrant community. It 

promotes sports tourism in Thailand and increases global awareness of our diverse attractions. We aim to continuously support and promote this event in the years ahead, working together with enthusiasts worldwide."

Extending a warm welcome to sailors, Jetsada Jitrat, Governor of Surat Thani Province, underscored the event's economic impact. He pointed out that Surat Thani's robust infrastructure – two airports catering to domestic and international flights, top-tier hotels and restaurants, unique local culture, and awe-inspiring sea views – makes it a prominent hub for maritime tourism in the Gulf of Thailand. He added, “All these factors contribute to Surat Thani Province becoming a prominent center for maritime tourism in the Gulf of Thailand and a leading advocate for sustainable tourism in the region. This year's Samui Regatta is expected to inject at least 100 million baht into Koh Samui's business sector.”

Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), highlighted the event's role in shaping Koh Samui's tourism landscape over the past two decades. “The Tourism Authority of Thailand is thrilled to contribute to promoting international sports competitions, bolstering Koh Samui's reputation as a sought-after destination for global tourists. Sailing, as a lifestyle activity, plays a pivotal role in effectively promoting tourism by attracting tourists annually, thereby raising awareness of Samui among Thai and foreign visitors. This contributes to both tourism revenue growth and the overall quality and quantity of tourists, promoting sustainable tourism.”

Race Director of the 21st Samui Regatta, Simon James, highlighting the event's successful history of attracting international sailors for 21 consecutive years, added, "Participants will experience the stunning race track and the picturesque scenery of the Samui Sea. Top sailors from Hong Kong, North America, Australia, and Europe have formed international crews to compete this year. Boats have traveled over 1,200 miles from Hong Kong, Phuket, and nearby Pattaya to join us. We expect five days of competitive racing, including an exciting mid-week pursuit race. After racing, sailors can look forward to daily prize-giving and experiencing Samui's vibrant social life."

The 21st Samui Regatta competition will span five days, from May 27th to May 31st, with May 30th is a rest day and an opportunity for sailors to explore and experience the hospitality of Koh Samui. The competition will resume on May 31st and continue through June 1st. Each day's competition will conclude with a ceremony to honor and award the winners, culminating in a gala dinner on the beach on the final day. The Nora Beach Resort and Spa Hotel is the gracious host of this year's event.

The Samui Regatta Organizing Committee organizes the Samui Regatta in collaboration with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Tourism Association of Koh Samui, the Surat Thani Province, the Sports Authority of Thailand, and Regatta Asia.

The 21st Samui Regatta 2024 is proud to be supported by an array of sponsors whose collaboration and support are essential to the event's success. Co-sponsors include The Nora Hotel Group, Chaweng Regent Beach Resort, Bangkok Airways, Bangkok Hospital Samui, Haad Thip PCL, Frank Pong & Team Jelik, Singha, Samui VertiColor, Chaweng Gardens 

Beach Resort and SUNNE. Media Partners includes VivaldiPR, Thailand Marine Guide, and Sea Yachting Magazine

For more information on participating in the Samui Regatta or to register, please visit the regatta's website at https://www.samuiregatta.com; for updates on activities visit Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SamuiRegatta